University of Toronto Varsity Blues Executive Director of Athletics & Physical Activity, Beth Ali, has announced her retirement, effective July 2, 2024.
Ali has been a valued member of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education for over 30 years. She was appointed the Executive Director on November 1, 2016 after serving as the director of intercollegiate and high performance sport since August, 2010.
“Over the past 14 years, and in her current role as executive director, Beth’s extensive contributions to sport, physical activity, co-curricular activities and equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging have left an indelible mark on KPE, the University of Toronto, and countless students, staff, faculty and community members, both past and present,” said Professor Gretchen Kerr, dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education.
Ali’s visionary leadership, innovation and passion for intercollegiate athletics and the success of the student-athlete is undeniable. Through an empathetic lens, she executed program delivery generated through the framework of human development through sport, that has created a legacy of impact across Ontario University Athletics, U SPORTS, and throughout the Canadian sport landscape.
In 2023, she was honoured as the OUA Woman of Distinction.
On the field of play, the Varsity Blues have captured numerous conference titles and individual awards, notably earning an impressive 11 provincial championships and two national titles this past season. Under her guidance, the program has also opened two new state-of-the-art facilities that have hosted provincial and national championships, as well as established blossoming partnerships with NBA Canada, Basketball Canada, BioSteel, and OVO Bounce.
A Level 4/5 certified coach with the National Coaching Certification Program in field hockey, she spent 17 years at U of T as intercollegiate manager, program manager and head coach of Varsity Blues field hockey before taking on more senior roles elsewhere.
A pioneering leader in athletics, recreation and physical activity – as a coach, an administrator or as a board member – Ali has been an advocate of change, ensuring students’ voices were heard and informed decision-making, and that policies and their implementation positively enriched the student experience. Her influence on advancing gender equity in sport participation and leadership is particularly noteworthy.
“I am forever grateful to the University of Toronto for the opportunities it has provided,” said Ali. “In the end, it is about the people and I have been blessed to work with an outstanding group of students, staff, coaches and colleagues during my time here.”